Oyo State Commissioner for Information, Prince Dotun Oyelade, has been honoured with the Media Legendary Award by the South West Guild of Online Publishers (SWEGOP) in recognition of his remarkable contributions to the media industry spanning nearly five decades.
The award was presented during SWEGOP’s 9th Anniversary Celebration, which brought together top media professionals, scholars, and dignitaries across the Southwest region.
Renowned poet and dramatist, Emeritus Professor Niyi Osundare, and former Nigerian Tribune Editor-in-Chief, Mr. Biodun Oduwole, applauded Prince Oyelade’s enduring impact on journalism and governance.
They recalled his landmark journalistic achievements and praised his professional integrity, urging younger journalists to draw inspiration from his exemplary career.
They emphasized that Dotun Oyelade’s journey stands as a beacon for journalists who wish to uphold democratic values and maintain high ethical standards in media practice.
In his keynote address, Africa’s foremost industrialist, Alhaji Aliko Dangote, commended online publishers for their vital role in nation-building.
Represented by Mr. Francis Awowole-Brown, he reaffirmed the commitment of the Dangote Group to strengthening its partnership with SWEGOP and supporting the growth of credible digital journalism in Nigeria.
Delivering the anniversary lecture titled “Governance, Citizen Expectations and Breaking Barriers: Lessons for 2027 Elections”, Prof. Adeolu Akande, represented by Dr. Idowu Johnson, urged journalists, online publishers, and civil society organisations to consistently hold government accountable.
He emphasized the media’s crucial role in protecting democratic institutions and ensuring transparency in governance, particularly in the lead-up to the 2027 general elections.
Chairman of the occasion, Dr. Yemi Farounbi, described online publishers as essential change agents in the modern media ecosystem.
He challenged them to amplify diverse voices, foster inclusive public dialogue, counter misinformation, and promote media literacy among citizens.
In his welcome address, Pastor Bisi Oladele, Chairman of SWEGOP, reiterated the association’s mission to promote ethical journalism, defend press freedom, and elevate the standards of digital media across the Southwest.
He noted that SWEGOP has firmly rooted itself in the region and is advancing initiatives that support responsible journalism and digital innovation.
The occasion was graced by several high-profile guests, including the Chairman of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Oyo State Council, Comrade Demola Babalola, and the Chief Press Secretary to Oyo State Governor, Pastor Sulaimon Olanrewaju, among other dignitaries from the media, political, and academic circles.
Prince Dotun Oyelade, who currently serves as the Commissioner for Information in Oyo State, was praised for his tireless commitment to journalistic excellence and public service. His illustrious career has inspired generations of media practitioners across Nigeria.
In a tribute to his legacy, Emeritus Professor Niyi Osundare, a celebrated poet and dramatist, and Mr. Biodun Oduwole, former Editor-in-Chief of the Nigerian Tribune, highlighted some of Prince Oyelade’s landmark contributions to journalism and national development.
Both speakers emphasized that younger journalists have much to learn from the career and principles of Prince Oyelade. They described him as a symbol of professionalism, integrity, and commitment to the truth—values critical to sustaining democracy in Nigeria.
Delivering the keynote address, Africa’s foremost industrialist, Alhaji Aliko Dangote, acknowledged the pivotal role of online publishers in shaping national discourse and promoting accountability.
He was represented by Mr. Francis Awowole-Brown, who conveyed Dangote’s message of appreciation and pledged continued support for SWEGOP’s initiatives through a stronger partnership with the Dangote Group.
The Anniversary Lecture, themed “Governance, Citizen Expectations and Breaking Barriers: Lessons for the 2027 Elections”, was delivered by Prof. Adeolu Akande, who was represented by Dr. Idowu Johnson.
In his lecture, Prof. Akande charged journalists, online media practitioners, and civil society organisations to consistently hold public office holders accountable, especially as Nigeria prepares for future elections. He emphasized the media’s crucial role in deepening democratic culture and ensuring responsible governance.
In his address as Chairman of the Occasion, veteran broadcaster and diplomat Dr. Yemi Farounbi described online publishers as critical change agents in today’s media landscape.
He urged them to amplify marginalized voices, promote inclusive democratic dialogue, combat misinformation, and encourage media literacy across society.
Earlier in his welcome remarks, Pastor Bisi Oladele, Chairman of SWEGOP, reaffirmed the organisation’s dedication to advancing ethical journalism, digital innovation, and press freedom throughout the Southwest region.
He noted that SWEGOP has firmly established its presence across all six states of the region, fostering a network of professional, responsible online publishers.
The event attracted several notable personalities, including the Chairman of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Oyo State Council, Comrade Demola Babalola, and the Chief Press Secretary to the Oyo State Governor, Pastor Sulaimon Olanrewaju, among other dignitaries from the media, political, and academic communities.